About the Presentation: Steve Leonard opened his talk by reminding us that the mission of KRLT is to protect the Kinni and its watershed. There are many stakeholders in the span of the river, with the current focus being the agricultural community to minimize the impact of agricultural activity as well as development on the Kinni watershed. KRLT has over 2000 acres of protected land through conservation easements. There are 40 in total, with about 1 added per year. Easements can include set-asides for development in the future. KRLT has 4 nature preserves open to the public: the Community Forest, Headwaters, Kelly Creek, and Drewiske Family Preserves.
Turning the focus to educational programs, Steve started by saying that watershed tours are a way that the KRLT provides the community with detailed education. KRLT has a part-time coordinator for watershed tour education. KRLT has also added senior programming, which KRLT runs with help from the Inclusa Foundation. Steve pointed out that many seniors at Bay Harbor grew up on farms, and they have continuing interest in the natural world including the Kinni. Click READ MORE for the rest of the summary and to read about Steve.
Steve pointed out that student interns are a win-win for KRLT and UWRF. At the secondary level, KRLT works with River Falls, Ellsworth, Prescott, and St Croix Central to provide student opportunities to get their hands dirty, learn about planting, and develop work experience. KRLT receives support from the Feyereisen Foundation. The Hudson Hospital Foundation supports Kinni Explorers, a program to encourage families to get outdoors together. On October 1st each year, KRLT sponsors Nature Fest at a farm and event center right along the Kinni.
About Steve Leonard: Steve Leonard has been the executive director of Kinnickinnic River Land Trust since 2023. He comes from years of experience working in the nonprofit world for land trusts and educational organizations. Most recently, he was the director at The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor, WI. Steve and his wife Julie have four grown children, four grandchildren and five grand puppies. As you can imagine, family life keeps Steve and Julie pretty busy.